The MAA was signed in 1969 by Canada and the governments of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba in recognition of the need to cooperatively share and manage interprovincial waters for the benefit of present and future generations.

Drinking (D), Fisheries (F), Agriculture (A), and
Consumption of Fish (C) water quality objectives are used to
monitor water quality on the South Saskatchewan River. The lowest
numerical level was selected for each variable from the various
water use objectives to ensure that the highest level of protection
is given to protect the entire aquatic environment.